The Eurozone will welcome its 21st member state

On the 4th local time, the European Central Bank officially approved Bulgaria’s application to use the euro, making it the 21st member state of the eurozone.

The European Commission issued a press release on the same day saying that Bulgaria is ready to use the euro from January 1, 2026, which is an important milestone.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Bulgaria is one step closer to the euro becoming its official currency. Von der Leyen said that after joining the eurozone, Bulgaria’s economy will be stronger and its financing channels will be smoother.